06027, East Hartland, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06027, East Hartland, Connecticut is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.45 percent of residents in 06027 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is John Dempsey Hospital with a distance of 19.26 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06027 (East Hartland, CT)**

The air in East Hartland, Connecticut (ZIP code 06027), whispers of rural tranquility, a haven of rolling hills and dense forests. Yet, beneath the serene facade lies a critical consideration for residents, especially those facing the potential diagnosis of lung cancer: the accessibility of healthcare. This report analyzes the transportation landscape, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, and ultimately assigns a Lung Cancer Score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical services.

The score hinges on the interplay of various transportation options, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages in the context of healthcare access. For individuals grappling with the physical and emotional toll of a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the journey to a medical facility becomes more than just a commute; it’s a test of resilience and a significant factor in their overall well-being.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For those who prefer the independence of a personal vehicle, the primary arteries of transportation in and around East Hartland are the state roads. Route 20, a vital east-west thoroughfare, provides a direct link to the larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is readily available. Driving east on Route 20 leads to Windsor Locks, a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, home to the Bradley International Airport and various medical facilities. Heading west on Route 20, a similar drive-time to the quaint town of Granby provides access to local practices and clinics.

The speed of travel, of course, is influenced by traffic conditions, particularly during peak commuting hours. The presence of Route 189, running north-south, adds another layer to the transportation network, offering alternative routes to destinations like Simsbury and Canton. However, these roads, though generally well-maintained, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, potentially impacting travel times during winter storms.

For those considering moving to East Hartland, this drive-time analysis is crucial. The convenience of a personal vehicle is undeniable, but the potential for delays and the physical demands of driving, especially for patients undergoing treatment, must be carefully considered.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates a bus service, though its routes and frequency are not extensive in the East Hartland area. The availability of bus routes serving the area is minimal, with limited service to surrounding towns.

For individuals requiring public transit, the primary concern revolves around frequency and accessibility. Bus schedules are often infrequent, and the routes may not directly serve the medical facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, equipped with features like ramps and wheelchair lifts, is crucial for patients with mobility challenges. Information regarding specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility can be found on the CTDOT website. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot or choose not to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in East Hartland can be variable. Ride-sharing services may be less readily available in rural areas than in urban centers.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized solution. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate patients with mobility limitations. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers often serve the area, but their availability and cost should be carefully researched.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 06027 is calculated based on the following factors: drive times to medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options.

The score is weighted to reflect the importance of each factor. Drive times are given significant weight, as they directly impact the speed of access to diagnosis and treatment. The availability and reliability of public transportation are also given considerable weight, as they provide an essential lifeline for those without personal vehicles. The presence of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options is also factored in, as they offer alternative solutions.

Given the limitations in public transportation and the potential for variable ride-sharing availability, the Lung Cancer Score for 06027 is moderate. While drive times to medical facilities are manageable, the lack of robust public transit and the potential challenges in securing ride-sharing or medical transportation services could pose a barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

**Conclusion**

For residents of East Hartland, Connecticut, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges regarding healthcare access. While the presence of state roads provides a relatively direct route to medical facilities, the limited public transportation options and the potential variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful consideration.

For those considering moving to East Hartland, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and potential healthcare requirements is essential. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this rural community, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The score highlights the importance of planning for transportation, especially for those facing the potential diagnosis of lung cancer, and underscores the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in rural areas.